In winter snow and ice come rushing through the Rocky Mountains, the landscape comes alive. In the towns, people are bundled up and out to play — exploring deep crevices in the earth, canyon walls covered with sheets of ice, and dancing over frozen lakes on skates. Inside, the fires are lit, glowing softly, and sweet warm drinks are steaming. It’s the season of rich, indulgent meals looking over vast, frosty valleys. And aren’t you glad? It’s winter in one of the most beautiful places in Canada.
Every winter, we wait with bated breath for news of snow in the Rockies. Winter is, after all, one of the best times to see one of the best vacation spots in Canada, and we’re excited to share it with visitors. When the snow hits, everything from the peaks to the valleys transforms and comes alive with excitement and action. If you’re looking for winter activities, the Rocky Mountains are the place to go.
We’ll let you in on a secret: winter vacations in Canada are a little-known wonder. And our Travel Designers know it. They love to work with you to build your ideal travel itinerary, allowing you to see everything on your list without missing any of the secret good stuff. The suggestions below are infused with knowledge direct from the experts themselves to fit perfectly into many of our Canadian Rockies winter tours to make a magical addition (or centerpiece) to your winter vacation in Canada.
So what is there to do in the Rockies in winter? Let's start at the beginning.
The iconic Banff Avenue in the winter
Where to Visit in the Rockies
Looking for places to visit in Canada in winter? At nearly 300 miles long, the Rockies are home to many, many towns and resorts. And, to properly experience the mountains, you can’t just choose one.
The three best-known stops are Jasper, Lake Louise, and Banff. And this is for good reason — each is tucked into a snow-filled valley and has stunning winter views by default (note: if you’re looking for a snow-free trip, the Rockies in winter aren’t for you). But each stop also offers a wealth of unique activities to try.
The three spots are located relatively close together — making them all accessible in a single trip — but each offers a distinct experience of mountain life and culture. So while they’re close together, they make up the best towns in the Rockies for a full mountain experience without feeling repetitive.
The heart of Jasper town in the snow
Why Visit Jasper in Winter
Best known for its feeling of local mountain life, Jasper began as nothing more than a small, rural trading post deep in the middle of the wild.
And you still can feel it.
The town is still charming and humble and surrounded by endless wilderness. This feels especially true in winter, with cozy log cabins, crackling fireplaces, and snowy roads snaking away into the open wild.
And, of course, the main draw is its location, tucked away deep in Jasper National Park. In Jasper, you really get the authentic mountain town experience.
Winter Jasper is best at:
- Showcasing the local, laid-back culture of mountain life
- Getting you out and into nature
- Being well connected — accessible from both Calgary and Vancouver by VIA Rail’s winter snow train
But keep in mind:
- Jasper has a quieter town scene than bigger hubs like Banff and less access to commercial amenities
Lake Louise turned into an ice rink in winter
Why Visit Lake Louise in Winter
If you’re looking for grand views, Lake Louise is as impressive as it is iconic. From the Chateau Lake Louise perched at the tip of the vast lake — a striking blue in the summer and frozen over come winter — you get the postcard view of the lake backed by Mount Victoria. Then, head out onto the frozen lake for a view back towards the hotel.
In Lake Louise, you are surrounded by grandeur from the soaring peaks to the vast icy lake to the richly furnished chateau. It is, without a doubt, a winter wonderland.
Winter Lake Louise is best at:
- Its quintessential showstopper views
- A new snowy way to experience a day at the lake
- Incredible high tea and exclusive hotel experience
But keep in mind:
- There is no town center — this is a place to come to experience the lake itself, and most of the activities reflect that
- The lake can be busy during the daytime, especially on weekends
Shopping on Banff Avenue
Why Visit Banff in Winter
Banff in the winter is everything that a snowy mountain town should be. As a central hub in the Rockies, it has iconic views, bustling streets, and winter activities all at once.
Winter Banff is best at:
- Its access to commercial amenities — here you can eat, drink, and shop your day away in the Rockies
- Its location in Banff National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site
But keep in mind:
- The town is often busier than other spots in the Rockies, and visitors should expect a more tourist-focused experience here
- Reaching the town by car can be difficult alone due to road conditions, but transfers are available to help visitors navigate the icy roads
While it’s impossible not to be enchanted by the jaw-dropping views of the mountains surrounding the towns and hotels, the Rockies come alive best through the activities hidden between their peaks.
So, from trekking icy canyons in Jasper to seeing the sights from above in Banff, this is your ultimate guide to the winter activities in the Rockies.
Best Activities in the Rocky Mountains
Winter in Canada was made for exploring. Getting out and among the scenery is the best way to do that.
Maligne Canyon Ice Walk in Jasper
Things to do in Jasper
Jasper might be best known for its access to the similarly named Jasper National Park (Canada’s largest park in the Rocky Mountains), but the town is also worthy of attention. Exploring it won’t take long — walking from end to end takes just 30 minutes — but it is a must-do to experience real mountain life. As you dip in and out of small cafes and locally-owned boutiques to stay warm, you will get a sense of the strong local community that lives there and why it's such an incredible place to call home.
Jasper is best experienced, however, through its access to nature. The most immersive, perhaps, is the Ice Walk at Maligne Canyon. In summer, water gushes through the narrow gorge and is visible through walkways and bridges above. But, come winter, the water freezes and you can descend into the canyon to be entirely surrounded by snow and ice.
You don protective gear (provided by your tour guide) and weave down, through dense, snowy forest onto the frozen canyon floor, swapping pine for rock and ice. And, at the bottom, you will discover a world like no other. Narrow ice caves and living ice formations — the frozen falls always growing and changing through winter — line the walls, and just a sliver of sky can be seen above.
It’s difficult to be more immersed than that.
A steak dinner at Terra
In keeping with Jasper’s connection to the land, restaurants offer locally sourced fare to give you some of the best mountain food you could get. The best is perhaps Terra, with seasonal changing menus featuring flavors and ingredients from the surrounding region.
Winter offers include a local winter vegetable salad, and a ‘three sisters’ (the First Nations staple combination of corn, squash, and beans) chicken stew. Of course, this is alongside warming staples such as burgers, poutine, and steak (all containing the world-renowned, high-quality Alberta beef).
Ice Skating on Lake Louise in winter
Things to do in Lake Louise
Unlike the other two locations here, Lake Louise doesn’t have so much of a central town. Instead, the main draw (aside, of course, from the stunning lake) is the grand Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise perched at one end of the water. And they take that role very seriously — through the winter months they hold events such as the Ice Magic Festival and take incredible care of the frozen lake.
Hikes around the Lake Louise area become challenging once the snow hits. It’s generally not recommended that visitors attempt them unless they are prepared for serious winter conditions, (snowshoeing around the lake makes for a better winter alternative). Instead, the biggest draw in winter is skating on the lake. And it can’t get more Canadian than this.
In amongst the towering mountains, glide (or wobble) over open ice on perhaps the most beautiful natural ice rink on earth. And, as it is cleared of snow daily by the Chateau Lake Louise, you are always sure to have the best skating conditions.
Accessing the rink is free with your own skates, or you can rent a pair from the hotel for a small fee. Travelers should note that Lake Louise is typically colder than the surrounding towns, and should dress appropriately.
To make the most of a day at the lake, we recommend arriving earlier in the morning to skate (beating any crowds) and then spending the afternoon warming up inside.
Our Canada by Design team member, Stephanie, enjoying lakeside afternoon tea
After spending time on the lake, the best way to experience Lake Louise has to be afternoon tea at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. And what better way to warm up after a morning on the ice?
Look over the lake as you work your way down layer after layer of delights. Traditional tea sandwiches and savory pastries, fluffy scones with cream and jam, and rich, decadent desserts to finish it off — all paired with your choice of tea of course.
Each bite may be small, but undertaking a full three-layer stack adds up fast. Plan in a couple of hours to really savor the experience, and be ready to leave full — for most guests, afternoon tea will equate to a large meal.
Banff Gondola amongst the peaks
Things to do in Banff
As the hub of the Rockies, Banff contains everything you might want in a mountain town. Its bustling main street, Banff Avenue, is lined with iconic Canadian brands, souvenir shops, and even a year-round Christmas store. You can easily fill a day exploring the town.
If you’re looking for unique stops in town, check out The Fudgery making handmade fudge right in front of you. Or, to get a taste of authentic Indigenous culture, head to the Banff Trading Post — an iconic store with well over 100 years of history, and even a hidden merman for visitors to find.
Seeing the Rockies towering over you from the valley is one thing, but seeing them from a summit is a whole other experience entirely. And the Banff Gondola offers you access to summit views with minimal effort.
Nightrise on Sulphur Mountain, overlooking Banff town
In the winter, we’d (perhaps controversially) recommend waiting until evening to take a ride up the Banff Gondola to see the best of the season in one trip. There are stunning views over the valley, town, and the Rocky Mountains backcountry (all of which glow a beautiful gold during the early sunset), and you can explore the peak from the easy boardwalk trail to the true summit at Sulphur Mountain Weather Observatory on Sanson's Peak. And in winter it’s worth waiting — Nightrise is an experience worth doing in the dark.
As the sun sets over the mountain, lights flicker on, illuminating Indigenous stories from time immemorial. To the sound of Stoney Nakoda First Nation language and drumming, you are welcomed into a new way of seeing the mountain. Here, learn the sacred history of the region waiting in the night.
At the top of Banff Gondola is another wonder: Sky Bistro. As you wait for the sky to darken and night to begin, dine at Sky Bistro, taking in stunning mountaintop views through floor-to-ceiling windows while you’re at it.
Dinner with a view at Sky Bistro, Banff
The meals here might be some of the best food in the Rockies, and demonstrate true “farm-to-summit” cuisine. Experience regionally-inspired creations that integrate local flavors into elevated classics.
Perhaps try bison as a small sample of tartare to start or a hearty sirloin steak as the centerpiece of your meal. Or, pair salmon gravlax or tuna with local stinging nettle to tie this fine-dining experience perfectly to its setting.
Best Hotels in the Rockies
Places to stay throughout the mountains range from ultra-luxurious chateaus to rustic and cozy cabins. Whatever you are looking for, you will find somewhere in the mountains. However, we put together the best from each location to suit the region’s unique energy.
The main lounge in the Forest Park Hotel, Jasper
Where to stay in Jasper
The beauty of staying in Jasper is the chance to experience a remote town in the middle of the forest without losing any of the comforts of home. And the Forest Park Hotel embodies this best. Combining new and old, the hotel is split into two halves — the Woodland Wing and the newly opened Alpine Wing.
The Alpine Wing is really where the hotel really shines.
Inspired by the forest, the new wing feels like a stay in a luxurious contemporary cabin, featuring elegant pine finishes throughout the rooms, and rich wood-lined bathrooms that feel pulled from a spa (one of which is also available on-site). This forest-inspired stay loses none of its warmth and comfort in its modern design (ideal for a Canada winter holiday) and makes for the perfect mountain retreat.
The ever-stunning Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Where to stay in Lake Louise
The choices of places to stay at Lake Louise are limited. You choose between staying away from the lake, often in Banff, and taking a day trip to the area, or on the lake at the Chateau Lake Louise. But it’s an easy decision to make.
Visiting Lake Louise without staying at the Chateau Lake Louise itself only gives you half the experience. The hotel not only has the best views of the lake (it is right there after all), but the opulent Fairmont mountain castle experience. Intricately patterned rugs, a mismatch of luxurious couches and deep armchairs, and grand fireplaces crackling with warmth meet you as you step in from the cold. And, in spending the night at the lake, you’ll get the area all to yourself, without any of the day traffic.
The beautiful Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
From the night view of the stars hanging over the mountains to breakfast overlooking a fresh coat of untouched snow on the lake’s frozen expanse, a stay at the lake gives you an exclusive experience you just can’t get in a day trip.
That feels like an easy choice to us.
Elk + Avenue hotel
Where to stay in Banff
To best experience the hub of Banff town, staying on the iconic Banff Avenue is key.
And Elk + Avenue is just that.
Sitting in an ideal location in the heart of the town, Elk + Avenue mirrors Banff, pairing the classic mountain-town feel with all the modern comforts you need on winter trips in Canada. Sleek and modern, but still infused with wooden touches that keep in mind the cozy comfort that mountain towns are best known for.
Want a slow morning? Don’t fancy snow before breakfast? Head to Farm & Fire. All warm wood and modern finishes, they offer a hearty brunch, sweet or savory, to start your day. And, come evening, the space transforms into a rustic and cozy spot for signature wood-fired pizzas and a range of other locally sourced delights.
Winter Tours in the Canadian Rockies
If our expert Travel Designers know one thing, it’s how to do Canada the right way. Traveling on our Canadian Rockies winter tours gives a great perspective of the regional variation between each of the star locations. And, to our designers, the breadth of the majestic snow-laden Rockies makes for one of the best winter tours Canada has to offer.
The Canadian: the most beautiful winter train Canada has to offer
To arrive in style, a Winter Snow Train to the Canadian Rockies sees you waking up onboard VIA Rail’s Canadian train, deep in the snowy mountains. Starting in Vancouver, where the sea, city, and mountains all live at once, arrive a night early to explore the laid-back atmosphere of the old port town, perhaps wandering the brick charm of the famed Gastown neighborhood. Then, experience one of the best winter train rides Canada has as you pull out of the city on a train headed right for Jasper. Be lulled to sleep by the train’s gentle sway, ready to wake refreshed for your mountain adventure. On arrival in the Rockies, you quickly see the real difference between coastal and mountain life.
But if you’re looking to really indulge, our Luxury Winter Train Trip gives you all this and more, with exclusive experiences, helicopter rides, and private transfers at every step.
Whatever you choose, everything is arranged for you by your personal Travel Designer so that your winter holidays in Canada are seamless and stress-free. Our Travel Designers know the Rockies like their own backyard and know all the inside tips and tricks to make your Canada winter vacations shine.
The VIA Rail train continuing across Canada
Where to go next
The Canadian Rockies might be big, but Canada is bigger. Located near one edge of the country, the Rockies act as a great jumping-off point (or a show-stopping end) to a bigger winter adventure. Our Canadian winter tours run throughout the country and showcase the best the Great White North has to offer.
At the edge of the Rockies, the land falls away to miles upon miles of open skies and snowy plains — venture onwards, out of the mountains, on a Trans Canada Winter Train Adventure. Here, watch the landscape and culture change from coast to mountains to plains, cities to towns to villages, and experience every kind of Canada.
Our Travel Designer, Mandy, on Lake Louise
5 Things to Know Before a Winter Vacation in the Rockies
Our Travel Designers know first-hand what a winter trip to the Rockies means (and how to best prepare). So we asked, and these are the top 5 things they said:
Is it Worth Going to the Rockies in Winter?
Absolutely! A really common misconception is that you should only visit the Rockies in winter if you ski, but that’s not true at all. Canada winter holiday packages offer everything from exciting activities (yes, free of skis) to relaxing spas hidden in the mountains. Regardless of what you’re looking for, you’ll find it in the mountains (as long as you like the snow).
The Best Month to Visit the Rockies
This really depends on what you’re looking for in your trip. For the best of the winter weather, and the least crowds, go in January (hotels and activities will often be a little cheaper too). But if you’re looking for a magical festive experience, Christmas in Canada is unbeatable.
One of the Canada by Design team showing how to dress for the winter weather
How to Pack for the Rocky Mountains Winter
Layers, layers, layers! The Rockies are relatively milder than what many visitors expect from the ‘Great White North,’ but it’s still the mountains in winter. With an average daily low of -10°C (that’s 14°F), we recommend visitors bring base layers (choosing materials like merino wool over cotton or polyester to retain heat best), an insulated, wind-proof coat, and the best scarfs, mittens, and toques (hats) you have.
How To Get to the Rocky Mountains in Winter
We don’t recommend guests drive through the Rockies at this time of year. Instead, treat this as a great opportunity to take the Canadian winter snow train. Not only is it safer, but you’re treated to gourmet meals as the stunning winter scenery rushes by, and you get to experience waking up deep in the snowy Rocky Mountains.
How Long to Stay in the Rockies
We recommend at least 7 days to explore the Rockies best, with one night on the train, and 2 nights in each stop. But adding a night, especially to adjust before your journey before or after your trip, never hurts (and allows you to explore a bigger Canadian city).
Book Your Winter Wonderland Getaway with Canada by Design
Experience the true beauty of winter in the Canadian Rockies.
Our expertly crafted packages ensure you get the most out of your journey with comfort, safety, and unforgettable experiences. Chat with one of our knowledgeable Travel Designers to start planning your custom Canada winter vacation experience. Your dream adventure awaits in the wild heart of Canada!
Looking to learn more? Visit our Canada Winter Train Trips page for inspiration on our favorite way to travel in winter, and to browse our most popular Canada winter vacation packages. Prefer to simply stay in touch? Subscribe to our newsletter for up-to-date deals, trip ideas, and more!